This weekend’s news that the Koch brothers have pledged to get involved in the presidential primaries in 2024 bolstered my resolve to continue my grassroots advocacy to reduce the power of money in politics and give Americans back their voice. The Koch network of donor organizations spent nearly $500 million supporting the 2020 election cycle alone, but it has never before supported candidates in presidential primaries. With that kind of money at play how can we reasonably expect candidates and elected officials to listen to their constituents over the sound of the money pouring in?
Ultrawealthy donors, corporations and special interest groups on all sides of the political spectrum have been empowered to spend unlimited campaign money because of the 2010 Citizens United ruling of the U.S. Supreme Court - a decision that reversed century-old campaign finance restrictions under the guise of “free speech.” Since that ruling the amount of dark money spent in American elections has steadily increased.
However, there is a way to restore equal voice to We The People - a constitutional amendment – a solution which is supported by 75% of all Americans. The For Our Freedom Amendment proposed by the non-partisan group American Promise will amend the U.S. Constitution to combat corruption, end elite and foreign money control of our elections and secure the representation of all Americans. Twenty-two states have already called on Congress for an amendment that enables reasonable limits on political donations. candidates have pledged support as well.
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As individual citizens, every one of our voices deserves to be heard – a true exercise of freedom of speech. Together we can build the needed support in Congress for an amendment to overcome big money and restore free and fair elections.
